The Dutch model dishes about being on both sides of the camera. By Christene Barberich, Portrait by Douglas Perrett/COACD

It's no surprise that many of fashion's most copied cat-walkers look just as amazing off-duty as they do cruising the coolest shows of Fashion Week. For Dutch model Iekeleine Stange, that's even a bit of an understatement. Since her arrival on the scene a few years ago—and a first glimpse of those signature red librarian-chic spectacles—the winsome 21-year-old has been in demand by everyone from Vogue (all of 'em) and Numero to Marc Jacobs, Burberry, and Chanel (not to mention our indie faves Chris Benz and Karen Walker).

Lately though, Stange has been spending just as much time behind the camera as she has in front of it. Living in London now with her photographer boyfriend, Nicholas Lawn, the fashion enigma has been sharpening her focus, too, as a lenswoman, snapping photos backstage in Paris and wherever else this globetrotting girl happens to be. We checked in with Stange not only about her own personal style truths, but also about her upcoming exhibition, a collection of the model's own photos to open in London next fall.

You definitely seem to have lots of fun getting dressed. How would you describe your style?
"It's a big mix of things. I don't take things too seriously and wish people could have more fun with how they dress. I like to get into a different character every day…it's fun to play around. I have a 2-bedroom apartment in London with my boyfriend, and one of the bedrooms is just considered my wardrobe! It's covered in sequins, tutus, catsuits, and colors everywhere you look. I love to make people smile when I walk down the street."

Iekeliene has become known for her playful style

Who are your biggest fashion inspirations?
"To be honest, I find my friends the most inspiring. I have a lot of very unique people around me who have their own character and don't get affected by their surroundings."

Tell us some of your style constants…the things you turn to everyday…
"I wear a lot of hairpieces, like hats, headbands, tiaras. I also have an obsession with anything sparkly! Of course, my big frames keep popping back on my nose, as well. I think Berlin is probably one of the best cities for vintage shopping now. There are some great markets there where people still sell all their junk for very little money."

Iekeliene's self-portrait polaroids